Alarm Base
1. Battery Compartment
2. Test button (Model SA300)
2. Test/Silence button (Model SA303)
This unit is designed to be mounted on the ceiling, or on the wall if necessary.
DO NOT attach this Alarm to an electrical junction box. Attachment to an electrical box may impair the Alarm’s operation. Attach directly to wallboard or flat wall or ceiling surface.
The Parts of This Unit
1.Mounting Bracket
2.Mounting Slots and Screws
3.Locking Pins (break out of bracket)
4.Latch to Open Battery Compartment
5.Swing-Out Battery Compartment
To remove the mounting bracket from the Smoke Alarm base, hold the Smoke Alarm base firmly and twist the mounting bracket counterclockwise.
Alarm remains functional. The LED will flash every 10 seconds (for up to 10 minutes) to remind you the alarm has been silenced. The flashing LED will stop when the unit returns to normal operation.
The Silence Feature does not disable the unit—it makes it temporarily less sensitive to smoke. For your safety, if smoke around the unit is dense enough to suggest a potentially dangerous situation, it will stay in alarm, or may re-alarm quickly. If you do not know the source of the smoke, do not assume it is an unwanted alarm. Not responding to an alarm can result in property loss, injury or death.
IF YOU SUSPECT A PROBLEM
Smoke Alarms may not operate properly because of dead, missing or weak batteries, a build-up of dirt, dust or grease on the Smoke Alarm cover, or installation in an improper location. Clean the Smoke Alarm as
older mobile homes (especially those built before 1978) have little or no insulation. If your mobile home is not well insulated, or if you are unsure of the amount of insulation, it is important to install units on inside walls only. Smoke Alarms should be installed where temperatures normally remain between 40˚ F (4˚ C) and 100˚ F (38˚ C). WARNING: Test units used in RVs after the vehicle has been in storage, before every trip, and once a week while in use. Failure to test units used in RVs as described may remove your protection.
This equipment should be installed in accordance with NFPA (National Fire Protection Association) 72 and 101. National Fire Protection Association, One Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 02269-9101. Additional local building and regulatory codes may apply in your area. Always check compliance requirements before beginning any installation.
This Smoke Alarm alone is not a suitable substitute for complete fire detection systems in places housing many people—like apartment buildings, condominiums, hotels, motels, dormitories, hospitals, long- term health care facilities, nursing homes, day care facilities, or group homes of any kind—even if they were once single-family homes. It is not a suitable substitute for complete fire detection systems in warehouses, industrial facilities, commercial buildings, and special-purpose non-resi- dential buildings which require special fire detection and alarm systems. Depending on the building codes in your area, this Smoke Alarm may be used to provide additional protection in these facilities.
The following information applies to all four building types below:
In new construction, most building codes require the use of AC or AC/DC powered Smoke Alarms only. In existing construction, AC, AC/DC, or DC powered Smoke Alarms can be used as specified by local building codes. Refer to NFPA 101 (Life Safety Code) or NFPA 72 (National Fire
Model SA300 | Model SA303 |
| With Silence Feature |
IMPORTANT!
PLEASE READ CAREFULLY AND SAVE.
This user’s manual contains important information about your Smoke Alarm’s operation. If you are installing this Smoke Alarm for use by others, you must leave this manual—or a copy of it—with the end user.
| Models |
| SA300, |
M08-0067-003 J1 02/05 Printed in Mexico | |
| SA303 |
TABLE OF CONTENTS | |
Fire Safety Tips | . . . . .1 |
Before You Install This Smoke Alarm | . . . . .1 |
How To Install This Smoke Alarm | . . .2-3 |
Optional Locking Features | . . .2-3 |
Weekly Testing | . . . . .2 |
Regular Maintenance | . . .2-3 |
If This Smoke Alarm Sounds | . . . . .3 |
What To Do In Case Of Fire | . . . . .3 |
Using the Silence Feature (Model SA303 Only) | . . . . .4 |
If You Suspect A Problem | . . . . .4 |
Limited Warranty | . . . . .4 |
Recommended Locations For Smoke Alarms | . . .4-5 |
Locations To Avoid For Smoke Alarms | . . . . .5 |
About Smoke Alarms | . . . . .5 |
Special Compliance Considerations | . . . . .6 |
FOLLOW THESE SIMPLE STEPS!
Tools you will need: | | 6. | Activate the battery. With the battery | |
| • Pencil | • Drill with 3/16” (5 mm) drill bit | | compartment open, install the battery | – |
| | so the terminals on the battery match |
| • Hammer | • Standard Flathead screwdriver | | + |
| | the terminals on the Smoke Alarm. |
1. | Remove the mounting bracket from the Smoke Alarm base. Hold the | | |
| Match “+” to “+” and “-” to “-.” Push | |
| mounting bracket against the ceiling (or wall) and make a mark at | | the battery in until it snaps in securely | |
| the center of each of the mounting slots with a pencil. | | and cannot be shaken loose. | |
2. | Put the unit where it won’t get covered with dust when you drill the | | If the battery is not snapped in completely, the unit cannot receive |
| mounting holes. | | | battery power. The Smoke Alarm may beep briefly when you install |
3. | Using a 3/16” (5 mm) drill bit, drill a hole through each pencil mark. | | the battery—this is normal. | |
4. | Insert the plastic screw anchors (in the plastic bag with screws) into | 7. | Position the base of the Smoke Alarm over the mounting bracket and |
| the holes. Tap the screw anchors gently with a hammer, if necessary, | | turn. The Alarm can be positioned over the bracket every 60°. Turn |
| until they are flush with the ceiling or wall. | | the Smoke Alarm clockwise (right) until the unit is in place. | |
5. | Tighten the screws (provided) into the screw anchors. | 8. | Test the Smoke Alarm. See “Weekly Testing.” | |
OPTIONAL LOCKING FEATURES
The locking features are designed to discourage unauthorized removal of the battery or Alarm. It is not necessary to activate the locks in single-family households where unauthorized battery or Alarm removal is not a concern.
| These Smoke Alarms have two separate locking features: one to lock the battery compartment, and the other to lock the | Locking Pin |
| Smoke Alarm to the mounting bracket. You can choose to use either feature independently, or use them both. |
| |
| Tools you will need: • Needle-nose pliers or utility knife • Standard Flathead screwdriver. | |
| Both locking features use locking pins, which are molded into the mounting bracket. Using needle nose pliers or a utility knife, | |
| remove one or both pins from the mounting bracket, depending on how many locking features you want to use. | |
| | | | | |
| | | | | |
To permanently remove either lock, insert a flathead screwdriver between the locking pin and the lock, and pry the pin out of the lock.
described in “Regular Maintenance,” and install a fresh battery, then test the Smoke Alarm again. If it fails to test properly when you use the test button, or if the problem persists, replace the Smoke Alarm immediately.
•If you hear a “chirp” once a minute, replace the battery.
•If you experience frequent non-emergency alarms (like those caused by cooking smoke), try relocating the Smoke Alarm.
•If the alarm sounds when no smoke is visible, try cleaning or relocating the Smoke Alarm. The cover may be dirty.
•If the alarm does not sound during testing, try installing a new battery, and make sure it is snapped in securely.
Do not try fixing the alarm yourself – this will void your warranty!
If the Smoke Alarm is still not operating properly, and it is still under warranty, please see “How to Obtain Warranty Service” in the Limited Warranty below.
LIMITED WARRANTY
BRK Brands, Inc., ("BRK") the maker of First Alert® brand products warrants that for a period of ten years from the date of purchase, this product will be free from defects in material and workmanship. BRK, at its option, will repair or replace this product or any component of the product found to be defective during the warranty period. Replacement will be made with a new or remanufactured product or component. If the product is no longer available, replacement may be made with a similar product of equal or greater value. This is your exclusive warranty.
This warranty is valid for the original retail purchaser from the date of initial retail purchase and is not transferable. Keep the original sales receipt. Proof of purchase is required to obtain warranty performance. BRK dealers, service centers, or retail stores selling BRK products do not have the right to alter, modify or any way change the terms and conditions of this warranty.
AGENCY PLACEMENT RECOMMENDATIONS
NFPA 72 (National Fire Code)
Smoke Alarms shall be installed in each separate sleeping room, outside each sleeping area in the immediate vicinity of the bedrooms and on each additional story of the family living unit, including basements and excluding crawl spaces and unfinished attics.
In new construction, Alarms shall be so arranged that operation of any one Alarm shall cause the operation of all Alarms within the dwelling.
Smoke Detection-Are More Smoke Alarms Desirable? The required number of Smoke Alarms might not provide reliable early warning pro- tection for those areas separated by a door from the areas protected by the required Smoke Alarms. For this reason, it is recommended that the householder consider the use of additional Smoke Alarms for those areas for increased protection. The additional areas include the base- ment, bedrooms, dining room, furnace room, utility room, and hallways not protected by the required Smoke Alarms. The installation of Smoke Alarms in kitchens, attics (finished or unfinished), or garages is not normally recommended, as these locations occasionally experience conditions that can result in improper operation.
California State Fire Marshal (CSFM)
Early warning detection is best achieved by the installation of fire detec- tion equipment in all rooms and areas of the household as follows: A Smoke Alarm installed in each separate sleeping area (in the vicinity, but outside bedrooms), and Heat or Smoke Alarms in the living rooms, dining rooms, bedrooms, kitchens, hallways, finished attics, furnace rooms, clos- ets, utility and storage rooms, basements, and attached garages.
LOCATIONS TO AVOID FOR SMOKE ALARMS
Alarm Code), local building codes, or consult your Fire Department for detailed fire protection requirements in buildings not defined as “house- holds.”
1. Single-Family Residence:
Single family home, townhouse. It is recommended Smoke Alarms be installed on every level of the home, in every bedroom, and in each bedroom hallway.
2. Multi-Family or Mixed Occupant Residence:
Apartment building, condominium. This Smoke Alarm is suitable for use in individual apartments or condos, provided a primary fire detection system already exists to meet fire detection requirements in common areas like lobbies, hallways, or porches. Using this Smoke Alarm in common areas may not provide sufficient warning to all residents or meet local fire protection ordinances/regulations.
3. Institutions:
Hospitals, day care facilities, long-term health care facilities. This Smoke Alarm is suitable for use in individual patient sleeping/resident rooms, provided a primary fire detection system already exists to meet fire detection requirements in common areas like lobbies, hallways, or porches. Using this Smoke Alarm in common areas may not provide sufficient warning to all residents or meet local fire protection ordinances /regulations.
4. Hotels and Motels:
Also boarding houses and dormitories. This Smoke Alarm is suitable for use inside individual sleeping/resident rooms, provided a primary fire detection system already exists to meet fire detection requirements in common areas like lobbies, hallways, or porches. Using this Smoke Alarm in common areas may not provide sufficient warning to all residents or meet local fire protection ordinances/regulations.
Limitations Of Smoke Alarms | 6 |
All Rights Reserved. © 2005 BRK Brands, Inc.
BRK Brands, Inc., 3901 Liberty Street Road, Aurora, IL 60504-8122 Consumer Affairs: (800) 323-9005 • www.firstalert.com
All First Alert® Smoke Alarms conform to regulatory requirements, including UL217 and are designed to detect particles of combustion.
Smoke particles of varying number and size are produced in all fires.
Ionization technology is generally more sensitive than photoelectric technology at detecting small particles, which tend to be produced in greater amounts by flaming fires, which consume combustible
materials rapidly and spread quickly. Sources of these fires may include paper burning in a wastebasket, or a grease fire in the kitchen.
Photoelectric technology is generally more sensitive than ionization technology at detecting large particles, which tend to be produced in greater amounts by smoldering fires, which may smolder for hours
before bursting into flame. Sources of these fires may include cigarettes burning in couches or bedding.
For maximum protection, use both types of Smoke Alarms on each level and in every bedroom of your home.
TO LOCK THE BATTERY COMPARTMENT
Do not lock the battery compartment until you have installed the battery and tested the unit.
1.Push and hold test button until the alarm sounds: 3 beeps, pause, 3 beeps, pause.
If the unit does not alarm during testing, DO NOT lock the battery compartment! Install a new battery and test again. If the Smoke Alarm still does not alarm, replace it immediately.
2. Using needle-nose pliers or a utility knife, detach one locking pin from the mounting bracket.
3. Push the locking pin through
the hole near the battery drawer on the back of the Smoke Alarm.
TO UNLOCK THE BATTERY COMPARTMENT
1.Remove the Smoke Alarm from the mounting bracket. If the unit is locked to the bracket, see the section “To Unlock the Mounting Bracket.”
2.Insert a flathead screwdriver under the
head of the locking pin, and gently pry it out of the battery compartment lock. (If you plan to relock the battery compartment, save the locking pin.)
3.To relock the battery compartment, close the battery door and reinsert locking pin in lock.
4.Reattach the Smoke Alarm to the mounting bracket.
When replacing the battery, always test the Smoke Alarm before relocking the battery compartment.
This warranty does not cover normal wear of parts or damage resulting from any of the following: negligent use or misuse of the product, use on improper voltage or current, use contrary to the operating instructions, disassembly, repair or alteration by anyone other than BRK or an author- ized service center. Further, the warranty does not cover Acts of God, such as fire, flood, hurricanes and tornadoes or any batteries that are included with this unit.
BRK shall not be liable for any incidental or consequential damages caused by the breach of any express or implied warranty. Except to the extent prohibited by applicable law, any implied warranty of merchantabil- ity or fitness for a particular purpose is limited in duration to the duration of the above warranty. Some states, provinces or jurisdictions do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages or limitations on how long an implied warranty lasts, so the above limita- tions or exclusion may not apply to you. This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights that vary from state to state or province to province.
How to Obtain Warranty Service
Service: If service is required, do not return the product to your retailer. In order to obtain warranty service, contact the Consumer Affairs Division at 1-800-323-9005, 7:30 AM - 5:00 PM Central Standard Time, Monday through Friday. To assist us in serving you, please have the
For best performance, it is recommended you AVOID installing Smoke Alarms in these areas:
• Where combustion particles are produced. Combustion particles |
form when something burns. Areas to avoid include poorly ventilated |
kitchens, garages, and furnace rooms. Keep units at least 20 feet |
(6 meters) from the sources of combustion particles (stove, furnace, |
water heater, space heater) if possible. In areas where a 20-foot |
(6 meter) distance is not possible – in modular, mobile, or smaller |
homes, for example – it is recommended the Smoke Alarm be |
placed as far from these fuel-burning sources as possible. The |
placement recommendations are intended to keep these Alarms at |
a reasonable distance from a fuel-burning source, and thus reduce |
“unwanted” alarms. Unwanted alarms can occur if a Smoke Alarm is |
placed directly next to a fuel-burning source. Ventilate these areas |
as much as possible. |
• In air streams near kitchens. Air currents can draw cooking smoke |
into the sensing chamber of a Smoke Alarm near the kitchen. |
• In very damp, humid or steamy areas, or directly near bathrooms with |
showers. Keep units at least 10 feet (3 meters) away from showers, |
saunas, dishwashers, etc. |
LIMITATIONS OF SMOKE ALARMS
Smoke Alarms have played a key role in reducing deaths resulting from home fires worldwide. However, like any warning device, Smoke Alarms can only work if they are properly located, installed, and maintained, and if smoke reaches them. They are not foolproof.
Smoke alarms may not waken all individuals. Practice the escape plan at least twice a year, making sure that everyone is involved – from kids to grandparents. Allow children to master fire escape planning and practice before holding a fire drill at night when they are sleeping. If children or others do not readily waken to the sound of the smoke alarm, or if there are infants or family members with mobility limitations, make sure that someone is assigned to assist them in fire drill and in the event of an emergency. It is recommended that you hold a fire drill while family members are sleeping in order to determine their response to the sound of the smoke alarm while sleeping and to determine whether they may need assistance in the event of an emergency.
Smoke Alarms cannot work without power. Battery operated units cannot work if the batteries are missing, disconnected or dead, if the wrong type of batteries are used, or if the batteries are not installed correctly. AC units cannot work if the AC power is cut off for any reason (open fuse or circuit breaker, failure along a power line or at a power
FIRE SAFETY TIPS
Follow safety rules and prevent hazardous situations: 1) Use smoking materials properly. Never smoke in bed. 2) Keep matches or lighters away from children; 3) Store flammable materials in proper containers;
4)Keep electrical appliances in good condition and don’t overload elec- trical circuits; 5) Keep stoves, barbecue grills, fireplaces and chimneys grease- and debris-free; 6) Never leave anything cooking on the stove unattended; 7) Keep portable heaters and open flames, like candles, away from flammable materials; 8) Don’t let rubbish accumulate.
Keep alarms clean, and test them weekly. Replace alarms immediately if they are not working properly. Smoke Alarms that do not work cannot alert you to a fire. Keep at least one working fire extinguisher on every floor, and an additional one in the kitchen. Have fire escape ladders or other reliable means of escape from an upper floor in case stairs are blocked.
BEFORE YOU INSTALL THIS SMOKE ALARM
TO LOCK THE MOUNTING BRACKET
1.Using needle-nose pliers, detach one locking pin from mounting bracket.
2.Insert the locking pin into the lock located on the pivoting hinge of the battery door.
3.When you attach the Smoke Alarm to the mounting bracket, the locking pin’s head will fit into a notch on the bracket.
TO UNLOCK THE MOUNTING BRACKET
1.Insert a flathead screwdriver between the
mounting bracket pin and the mounting bracket.
2.Pry the Smoke Alarm away from the
bracket by turning 
both the screwdriver and the Smoke Alarm counterclockwise (left) at the same time.
model number and date of purchase available when calling.
303 Nelson Avenue, Neosho, MO 64850-8806.
Battery: BRK Brands, Inc. make no warranty, express or implied, written or oral, including that of merchantability or fitness for any particular purpose with respect to battery.
Smoke Alarms Purchased with Lithium Battery: BRK Brands, Inc. warrants the enclosed battery to be free from defects in materials and workmanship under normal use and service for a period of ten years from the date of purchase.
RECOMMENDED LOCATIONS FOR SMOKE ALARMS
Installing Smoke Alarms in Single-Family Residences
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), recommends one Smoke Alarm on every floor, in every sleeping area, and in every bed- room. In new construction, the Smoke Alarms must be AC powered and
• Where the temperatures are regularly below 40˚ F (4˚ C) or above |
100˚ F (38˚C), including unheated buildings, outdoor rooms, porches, |
or unfinished attics or basements. |
• In very dusty, dirty, or greasy areas. Do not install a Smoke Alarm |
directly over the stove or range. Keep laundry room Smoke Alarms |
free of dust or lint. |
• Near fresh air vents, ceiling fans, or in very drafty areas. Drafts can |
blow smoke away from the unit, preventing it from reaching the |
sensing chamber. |
• In insect infested areas. Insects can clog openings to the sensing |
chamber and cause unwanted alarms. |
• Less than 12 inches (305mm) away from fluorescent lights. Electrical |
“noise” can interfere with the sensor. |
• In “dead air” spaces. “Dead air” spaces may prevent smoke from |
reaching the Smoke Alarm. |
station, electrical fire that burns the electrical wires, etc.). If you are concerned about the limitations of battery or AC power, install both types of units.
Smoke Alarms cannot detect fires if the smoke does not reach them. Smoke from fires in chimneys or walls, on roofs, or on the other side of closed doors may not reach the sensing chamber and set off the alarm. That is why one unit should be installed inside each bedroom or sleeping area—especially if bedroom or sleeping area doors are closed at night—and in the hallway between them.
Smoke Alarms may not detect fire on another floor or area of the home. For example, a stand-alone unit on the second floor may not detect smoke from a basement fire until the fire spreads. This may not give you enough time to escape safely. That is why recommended mini- mum protection is at least one unit in every sleeping area, and every bedroom on every level of your home. Even with a unit on every floor, stand-alone units may not provide as much protection as interconnected
IMPORTANT! Read “Recommended Locations for Smoke Alarms” and “Locations to Avoid for Smoke Alarms” before beginning. This unit moni- tors the air, and when smoke reaches its sensing chamber, it alarms. It can give you more time to escape before fire spreads. This unit can ONLY give an early warning of developing fires if it is installed, main- tained and located where smoke can reach it, and where all residents can hear it, as described in this manual. This unit will not sense gas, heat, or flame. It cannot prevent or extinguish fires.
Understand The Different Type of Smoke Alarms
Battery powered or electrical? Different Smoke Alarms provide different types of protection. See “About Smoke Alarms” for details.
Know Where To Install Your Smoke Alarms
Fire Safety Professionals recommend at least one Smoke Alarm on every level of your home, in every bedroom, and in every bedroom hallway or separate sleeping area. See “Recommended Locations For Smoke Alarms” and “Locations To Avoid For Smoke Alarms” for details.
Know What Smoke Alarms Can and Can’t Do
A Smoke Alarm can help alert you to fire, giving you precious time to escape. It can only sound an alarm once smoke reaches the sensor. See “Limitations of Smoke Alarms” for details.
WEEKLY TESTING
NEVER use an open flame of any kind to test this unit. You might accidentally damage or set fire to the unit or to your home. The built-in test switch accurately tests the unit’s operation as required by Underwriters Laboratories, Inc. (UL). If you choose to use an aerosol smoke product to test the Smoke Alarm, be certain to use one that has been Listed to Underwriters Laboratories, Inc. Safety Standards, and use it only as directed. Use of non-UL Listed prod- ucts or improper use of UL Listed products may affect the Smoke Alarm’s sensitivity.
It is important to test this unit every week to make sure it is working properly. Using the test button is the recommended way to test this Smoke Alarm. Press and hold the test button on the cover of the unit until the alarm sounds (the unit may continue to alarm for a few seconds after you release the button). If it does not alarm, make sure the unit is receiv- ing power and test it again. If it still does not alarm, replace it immediate- ly. During testing you will hear a loud, repeating horn pattern: 3 beeps, pause, 3 beeps, pause.
REGULAR MAINTENANCE, Continued
Actual battery service life depends on the Smoke Alarm and the environ- ment in which it is installed. All the batteries specified above are accept- able replacement batteries for this unit. Regardless of the manufacturer’s suggested battery life, you MUST replace the battery immediately once the unit starts “chirping” (the “low battery warning”).
IF THIS SMOKE ALARM SOUNDS
RESPONDING TO AN ALARM
During an alarm, you will hear a loud, repeating horn pattern: 3 beeps, pause, 3 beeps, pause.
•If the unit alarms and you are not testing the unit, it is warning you of a potentially dangerous situation that requires your immediate attention. NEVER ignore any alarm. Ignoring the alarm may result in injury or death.
interconnected. See “Agency Placement Recommendations” for details. For additional coverage, it is recommended that you install a Smoke Alarm in all rooms, halls, storage areas, finished attics, and basements, where temperatures normally remain between 40˚ F (4˚ C) and 100˚ F (38˚ C). Make sure no door or other obstruction could keep smoke from reaching the Smoke Alarms.
More specifically, install Smoke Alarms:
•On every level of your home, including finished attics and basements.
•Inside every bedroom, especially if people sleep with doors closed.
•In the hall near every sleeping area. If your home has multiple sleep- ing areas, install a unit in each.
•If a hall is over 40 feet (12 meters) long, install an alarm at each end.
•At the top of the first-to-second floor stairway, and at bottom of basement stairway.
Specific requirements for Smoke Alarm installation vary from state to state and from region to region. Check with your local Fire Department for current requirements in your area. It is recommended AC or AC/DC units be interconnected for added protection.
Avoiding Dead Air Spaces
“Dead air” spaces may prevent smoke from reaching the Smoke Alarm. To avoid dead air spaces, follow the installation recommendations below.
On ceilings, install Smoke Alarms as close to the center of the ceiling as possible. If this is not possible, install the Smoke Alarm at least 4 inches (102 mm) from the wall or corner.
For wall mounting (if allowed by building codes), the top edge of Smoke Alarms should be placed between 4 and 12 inches (102 and 305 mm) from the wall/ceiling line, below typical “dead air” spaces.
On a peaked, gabled, or cathedral ceiling, install the first Smoke Alarm within 3 feet (0.9 meters) of the peak of the ceiling, measured horizontally. Additional Smoke Alarms may be required depending on the length, angle, etc. of the ceiling's slope. Refer to NFPA 72 for details on require- ments for sloped or peaked ceilings.
ABOUT SMOKE ALARMS
Battery (DC) operated Smoke Alarms: Provide protection even when electricity fails, provided the batteries are fresh and correctly installed.
units, especially if the fire starts in a remote area. Some safety experts recommend installing interconnected AC powered units with battery back-up (see “About Smoke Alarms”) or professional fire detection sys- tems, so if one unit senses smoke, all units alarm. Interconnected units may provide earlier warning than stand-alone units since all units alarm when one detects smoke.
Smoke Alarms may not be heard. Though the alarm horn in this unit meets or exceeds current standards, it may not be heard if: 1) the unit is located outside a closed or partially closed door, 2) residents recently consumed alcohol or drugs, 3) the alarm is drowned out by noise from stereo, TV, traffic, air conditioner or other appliances, 4) residents are hearing impaired or sound sleepers. Special purpose units, like those with visual and audible alarms, should be installed for hearing impaired residents.
Smoke Alarms may not have time to alarm before the fire itself causes damage, injury, or death, since smoke from some fires may not reach the unit immediately. Examples of this include persons smoking in bed, children playing with matches, or fires caused by violent explosions resulting from escaping gas.
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